Mariliana Morales to speak at Westminster-St. Paul’s Presbyterian church

GUELPH

Mariliana Morales is founder and director of Fundación Rahab, a ministry to prostituted women and children in San Jose Costa Rica.

Westminster-St. Paul’s Presbyterian church, located at 206 Victoria Rd. N., Guelph, is thrilled to have Mariliana coming to speak in the worship service, on March 30 at 10:30am.

Fundación Rahab is a ministry run with limited resources and under intimidation from the organised crime bosses who profit from the human flesh trade.

Yet, since its inception in 1997, it has helped some 6900 trafficking victims to find a new life, through its holistic approach, which offers spiritual attention, education, nutrition, psychological assistance and vocational training.

Mariliana has also taken a leading role in educating local police about the issue of human trafficking.

In 2009 Mariliana’s work was recognized by U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, who named her a “heroine against modern slavery.” Mariliana’s amazing story was also featured in the 2013 documentary film “The Epic Journey,” which looks at Christians in 27 countries who have transformed their local communities through answering a specific sense of God’s call upon their lives.

Although Mariliana, a native of Chile, bases her ministry in Costa Rica, the issue of human trafficking is one of particular relevance at this time in Canada.

In December 2013 the Supreme Court declared Canada’s prostitution laws unconstitutional, giving the Federal government a year to draft new laws regulating this area of commerce, and sparking much discourse about legalizing prostitution in Canada.

The post graduate work and recent murder of Loretta Saunders has also shone a light on the particular vulnerability of Canada’s aboriginal people when it comes to human trafficking.

This presentation would be of interest to anyone in the community who would like to learn more about the issue of human trafficking and its urgency in our time.

For Christians seeking to be disciples-of-impact, in partnership with all who “do justice and love kindness,” Mariliana’s inspiring story of faith-based valour will be an encouragement.

For more information, or contact at 519-824-5221 or visit the church office Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 12pm.

The Rev. Karla Wübbenhorst is also happy to hear from anyone who wishes to contact her directly at kwubbenhorst@yahoo.ca.